Acne scars

The medical profession recognises that acne is not a trivial condition when it is as troublesome as yours with scarring...

Question

I have unsightly red scaring on my shoulders, which I'm certain is the result of acne when younger.

I only have the occasional spot on my face, but my shoulders are far more prone to acne.

I have fair skin so the scarring shows up and is embarrassing. It stops me from being able to enjoy activities where I have to go topless for any reason, such as swimming, sunbathing or even in the showers after playing sports.

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I am an extremely keen rugby player.

I have tried treatments available in the shops for acne, but the real problem is the scaring that remains.

I've had the problem for a most of my teenage life, and I feel that it has held me back in many respects.

I really want something to be done about it, although I am embarrassed about going to see anyone about my problem.

Answer

There is absolutely no need for you to be embarrassed about going to see a doctor with this problem.

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The medical profession recognises that acne is not a trivial condition when it is as troublesome as yours with scarring, and there are a number of things that can be done to help you.

The first thing to do is to make sure you do not get any more scars by having some intensive treatment. This will mean going to see your doctor and maybe a dermatologist (skin specialist).

Although the red scars that you have will fade in intensity with time, they may still leave marks that understandably will bother you.

There are techniques that can reduce them, but this again will need you to be referred to a dermatologist. This is available on the NHS.

I have seen many young men (and women) in this situation, and usually they find just talking to someone about it, and feeling that there is someone who will try and help them, is in itself beneficial.

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